How Do I Perform CPR on My Cat
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Sarah Jenkins, DVM, Feline Internal Medicine Specialist
Understanding Pet CPR
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is an emergency procedure performed when a cat’s heart stops beating or they stop breathing. Knowing how to perform CPR on a cat can be life-saving in critical situations. However, CPR should only be performed when necessary and is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The goal of CPR is to maintain blood circulation and oxygenation until veterinary assistance is available.
When to Perform CPR
CPR is needed when a cat is unresponsive and shows no signs of breathing or heartbeat. Signs that CPR may be necessary include the cat lying completely still and unresponsive, no visible chest movement, no pulse detectable, and gums that are pale, blue, or gray instead of pink.
Before starting CPR, confirm that the cat truly needs it. Gently tap or call to your cat. Feel for a pulse on the inner thigh where the leg meets the body. Watch the chest for any breathing movement.
Checking for Breathing and Pulse
To check for breathing, watch the chest for rising and falling movements. Feel for air coming from the nose or mouth. For pulse, place your fingers on the inner thigh where you can feel the femoral artery. A healthy cat’s pulse ranges from 140 to 220 beats per minute.
If you cannot detect breathing or a heartbeat, begin CPR immediately while having someone contact a veterinarian.
Preparing for CPR
Place the cat on their right side on a firm, flat surface. Extend the head and neck to straighten the airway. Open the mouth and check for any obstructions. If you see something blocking the airway, gently remove it with your finger or sweep the mouth carefully.
Keep the cat warm by placing a towel or blanket beneath and over them during CPR.
Rescue Breathing (Mouth-to-Snout)
If the cat has a heartbeat but is not breathing, perform rescue breathing:
Close the cat’s mouth and seal your lips around their nose and mouth, creating an airtight seal. Give a breath strong enough to make the chest rise slightly. Each breath should last about one second. Remove your mouth to let the air escape, then repeat.
Give one breath every three to five seconds, which equals 12 to 20 breaths per minute.
Chest Compressions
If the cat has no heartbeat, combine chest compressions with rescue breathing:
For small cats under 10 pounds, place your thumb and fingers on either side of the chest just behind the shoulder blades. For larger cats, place the heel of your hand over the widest part of the chest.
Compress the chest about one-third to one-half of its width. Perform 100 to 120 compressions per minute. After every 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths.
The Compression-to-Breath Ratio
The recommended ratio is 30 compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths. Continue this cycle without interruption until the cat responds, you reach a veterinary facility, or you become physically unable to continue.
If two people are available, one person can perform compressions while the other gives rescue breaths.
Signs to Watch For
Signs that CPR may be working include the chest rising with rescue breaths, a pulse becoming detectable, the gums turning pink again, the cat gasping or taking spontaneous breaths, or the cat moving or vocalizing.
Do not stop CPR prematurely. Continue until the cat is breathing independently and has a steady heartbeat, or until you reach professional help.
After CPR Stops
Even if CPR appears successful, the cat needs immediate veterinary evaluation. The underlying cause of the arrest needs to be identified and treated. Transport the cat to a veterinary hospital while maintaining their warmth and monitoring their breathing and heart rate.
Important Considerations
CPR can cause injury if performed on a cat whose heart is beating. Always confirm the absence of heartbeat before starting compressions. CPR is physically demanding—switch operators every two minutes if possible to maintain effective compressions. Even when performed correctly, CPR may not save every cat, especially if underlying conditions are severe.
Prevention
While not all emergencies can be prevented, regular veterinary care helps identify health issues early. Keep your home cat-safe by removing hazards, securing toxic substances, and preventing access to dangerous areas.
Training and Preparation
Consider taking a pet first aid course to learn proper CPR technique and other emergency procedures. Pet CPR classes are offered through many veterinary clinics, animal organizations, and community centers. Having emergency veterinary numbers saved and accessible can save precious time during a crisis.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional veterinary or medical advice. CPR is an emergency measure that should only be performed when absolutely necessary. Always contact a veterinarian as quickly as possible during any pet emergency. If possible, have someone else call the veterinarian while you perform CPR.